Improving your essays Kelsey Coward Student Transition and Progression Officer

Referencing

How to: paraphrase and summarise ParaphraseSummarise 1.read the text 2.remove the original from view 3.re-write what you have read in your own spoken words 4.re-write using formal English requires an in-text citation and reference is not a translation be careful not to alter the meaning or context of the original 1.read the text 2.make a note of the main points 3.re-write the main points in your own words requires an in-text citation and reference do not include additional information Coward, K. (2013) Improving your essays, University of Worcester 3

Using quotations 1.DoDo not 1.know why you are using it 2.introduce the quotation and expand on it 3.keep it short (generally) 4.use sparingly 5.include an in-text citation and full reference 1.use stand alone quotations 2.use excessively (3-4 per 2000 word essay) 3.quote long pieces of text (generally) 4.quote incorrectly (words or context) Coward, K. (2013) Improving your essays, University of Worcester 4

Critical analysis

Critical analysis: a process Question Initial thoughts Reading Creating notes Order Choice of words Answered? Coward, K. (2013) Improving your essays, University of Worcester 6

Argument

3 parts to a convincing argument Coward, K. (2013) Improving your essays, University of Worcester 8 evidence objectivity clarity

Structure

Your essay must include: 1.an introduction 2.a main body 3.a conclusion 4.Sentences 5.paragraphs 6.signposting words Question: Can I use headings? Coward, K. (2013) Improving your essays, University of Worcester 10

Editing and proofreading

EditingProofreading 1.List topic sentences: are they in a logical order? 2.Check emphasis of citations (author or content?) 3.Check that the main body reflects the introduction and conclusion. 4.Check for, and remove superfluous information. 5.Check for repetition 6.Check word count (usually +/-10%) Published books are edited approximately seven times! 1.Check spelling and use of words (use a dictionary: usage, context, spelling). 2.Check punctuation: commas, apostrophes etc. 3.Check accuracy of data 4.Check in-text citations against references. 5.Proofread from a printed copy Use Find (Microsoft) Hear your work (software, self, other) Allow time between “finishing” and proofreading. Make corrections and proofread again! Coward, K. (2013) Improving your essays, University of Worcester 12